Even those who are registered Republican and cast their votes for John McCain were moved. One former McCain supporter, Robin Aldrich, 53, cheered when President Barack Obama walked out to the inauguration stage.

“This is the first time I’ve ever watched an inauguration in 53 years,” Aldrich said.

All eyes were intently on the screen as Obama gave his inaugural address. Obama’s call to service and cooperation in the face of dire problems — and The Rev. Rick Warren’s prayer for civility in the face of differences — had heads nodding in agreement.

Despite Obama’s warning of the gravity of the environmental, economic and diplomatic dangers besetting the nation, those gathered felt that better times are ahead.

“I’m a Vietnam vet. I’ve got PTSD. And this is about the first time I’ve been happy with my government since 1968,” said John Danciu, 61, of San Andreas.

Boylson-Perbal said the inauguration held echoes of a much earlier time and another economic crisis.

“My first presidential inauguration was 1933. My father was very excited about it,” Boylson-Perbal said.

But probably not any more excited than Boylson-Perbal and his guests.

“I want to say how pleased I am to share this with all of you,” Boylson-Perbal said.